With the release of Switchfoot's Hello Hurricane this week (finally!), it's caused me to kind of reflect on what has been a great career of music for this San Diego rock band. I first heard Switchfoot in 1997 when The Legend Of Chin released, but actually didn't fully take notice of the band until that Fall when I saw the "Chem 6A" music video and then spun the full album again to really give it a chance to soak in. Since then, the trio has expanded to a quintet and for years these guys have just been making some really great tunes. It's tough to try to pick a favorite Switchfoot record, especially since nearly each one has impacted a big time period in my life, but if there were ever one that sort of defined who Switchfoot is and that kind of gave them a new identity and maturity, it'd have to be the career-making album, The Beautiful Letdown. From the opening sounds of "Meant To Live," to the closing musings of the beautiful "24," this is one solid alt rock record. If you're new to Switchfoot, this is the album to start with. And of course, check out Hello Hurricane as it streets this week. It's a wonderful "welcome back" from these San Diego surfers. ~ John DiBiase

Switchfoot
The Beautiful Letdown (2003)

Click here for a JFH Staff Review.

Our synopsis: "This young rock band finds itself and makes its way to the mainstream with an unforgettable batch of songs." (Recommended by JFH's John DiBiase)
Perfect For: Encouragement, wanting more out of life, worship
Song Highlights: "Meant To Live," "On Fire," "24," "Gone," "The Beautiful Letdown".... pretty much the whole thing

So, what are your thoughts on and experiences with the album The Beautiful Letdown? Do you recommend it? If so, why?